Are Dental Implants Right for You? Assessing Candidacy

Preserving radiant, confident smiles allowing proper chewing, speech, and joyful interactions with others remains integral even as we age. However, tooth loss often disrupts oral health, leaving gaps that accelerate jawbone deterioration over time. 

For individuals of all ages suffering missing teeth, innovative dental implants surgically fusing with the jaw to durably anchor realistic prosthetic teeth may offer the optimal long-term restorative solution. Read this guide to examine implant candidacy factors, procedural expectations, and immense benefits over traditional tooth replacements, and determine if adopting this modern approach suits your lifestyle and oral needs.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth, or chronic dental problems. Unlike dentures, dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone, mimicking the structure of a natural tooth root. This provides a stable foundation for replacement teeth, which are designed to match your natural teeth. Dental implants not only improve your smile but also preserve the structural integrity of your jawbone.

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

The ideal candidate for dental implants is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant. The best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. However, even if you're lacking sufficient bone or have gum disease, advancements in dental technology have made it possible for additional procedures to be carried out to prepare your mouth for the implant. 

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a myriad of benefits. They provide a strong, stable base for attached replacement teeth, which are shaped and colored to match your existing teeth. Unlike dentures, they do not slip or shift in your mouth, making eating and speaking easier. Dental implants also stimulate bone growth, preventing bone loss in the jaw, and preserving facial structure. Moreover, with proper care, they can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.

The Dental Implant Process

Getting dental implants usually involves several stages that take place over several months, but don't let that deter you. The process involves initial consultation and assessment, followed by the placement of the titanium implants, which are left to heal and integrate with the jawbone. Once the healing process is complete, the replacement teeth are fitted onto the implants. The result is a strong, stable, and visually pleasing replacement for your missing teeth.

Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile Today!

At Avenue Family Dentistry, we understand that every patient is unique. Dr. Leah Thomas and her team are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile with dental implants. Whether you're in Lowell or a neighboring city, we invite you to reach out to us at (219) 690-8866 to schedule a consultation. Let us help you assess your candidacy for dental implants and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile today!